Hopetoun Waterfall Beech Forest for Water H2O Thursday

 

Hopetoun Falls, located within the verdant Beech Forest region of Victoria, Australia, is a remarkable natural landmark renowned for its single-span cascade, which makes it an exceptional subject for long-exposure photography. I first visited this magnificent waterfall over ten years ago, and since then, it has remained one of my most cherished photographic locations. The falls descend gracefully through a steep gorge, surrounded by lush temperate rainforest dominated by ancient myrtle beech trees (Nothofagus cunninghamii), which contribute to the forest’s rich biodiversity and striking beauty.

The approach to Hopetoun Falls requires a gentle 30-minute walk along a well-maintained trail, winding through dense ferns and towering tree trunks that evoke the area’s long geological and ecological history. Over the past two decades, I have documented the falls extensively, noting significant changes in the environment, such as the increased accumulation of large fallen logs at the base of the cascade—remnants of the forest’s natural cycles of growth and decay. My earliest photographs, taken before these changes became pronounced, reveal a clearer, more unobstructed view of the water’s powerful descent.

The Beech Forest itself holds great natural heritage significance, forming part of the Great Otway National Park, an area that preserves ancient ecosystems that have persisted for millions of years. This forest and waterfall not only offer stunning scenery but also represent a vital refuge for numerous native species, making Hopetoun Falls a site of both scenic and ecological importance. Despite its popularity and the increasing number of visitors, which sometimes detracts from the tranquil atmosphere, Hopetoun Falls remains a timeless and inspiring symbol of Australia’s unique natural heritage.

Pentax K10D

DA 14mm f2.8

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Petrified Forest in Cape Bridewater near Portland for Treasure Tuesday

 

This area is called the petrified forest from an early theory that advancing sand engulfed an ancient forest of coastal trees that once covered the sea cliff, petrifying them for all time.

Actually the formation is a collection of hollow tubes of limestone called “solution pipes”, eroded by millions of years of rainfall. The process starts when water gathers in a shallow pan of sand and seeps downwards dissolving the limestone. The mineral saturated water then cements the sand, forming hard, trunk-shaped pipes. Most pipes around Cape Bridgewater are only three metres high, although some are as much as twenty metres.

The Petrified Forest is easily accessible from the car park at the end of Blowholes Road, Cape Bridgewater.

I have been to this area 4 times in total. This is the most recent snap. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Crepidotus, Panellus and Mycena epipterygia for Sunday Best

 

During a recent exploration, Joel and I encountered several intriguing fungi, which we subsequently identified with the aid of an AI tool. Among them were species from the genera Crepidotus, Panellus, and Mycena, specifically the elegant Mycena epipterygia. We were both deeply captivated by their delicate forms and the quiet grace with which they adorned their natural woodland habitat.

The genus Crepidotus is known for its fan-shaped fruiting bodies that typically grow on decaying wood. These saprophytic fungi contribute to the vital process of decomposition in forest ecosystems, breaking down organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil. Their name, derived from the Greek krepis (sandal), refers to their characteristic shape.

Panellus, another genus observed, shares similar ecological roles. Often growing in overlapping clusters on wood, some species of Panellus display bioluminescence, a phenomenon that has long fascinated naturalists. These fungi, too, are saprotrophs, and their presence signals a healthy, functioning forest floor.

Finally, Mycena epipterygia, commonly known as the yellowleg bonnet, is a small but exquisite mushroom, notable for its translucent cap and slender, often yellowish stem. Belonging to a large genus renowned for its fragile beauty, Mycena species frequently inhabit mossy logs and damp leaf litter. Some possess faint luminescence, and many have played roles in studies of fungal chemistry and symbiosis.

Each of these fungi, though modest in size, stands as a testament to nature’s quiet complexity. Their ephemeral presence in the forest reminds us of the intricate interdependence that sustains woodland life and the elegance that resides in even the humblest forms.

Sony A7RV

Sigma 105mm f2.8

Linking Sunday Best

I had been away for but a week, visiting Sydney. Upon my return, Joel insisted we stop for a drink at a Japanese bar in Richmond. He met me at the airport, evidently eager to unburden himself of the unpleasant affairs at his workplace. Though I scarcely caught the full tenor of his complaints, I found contentment in a bowl of piquant tofu soup and a glass of chilled namasake

Pixie Parasol in Lake Sanitarium Mount Macedon for Treasure Tuesday

 

Around this season each year, we venture into the woodlands of Mount Macedon, near Lake Sanitarium, in pursuit of the delicate and elusive wild mushrooms that flourish briefly in the damp and shaded understory. This annual tradition of mushroom hunting is both a ritual and a delight, a quiet communion with the rhythms of the forest. Yet, this year, our efforts have thus far borne no fruit. Twice we have searched the familiar grounds, only to find the earth ungenerous. The unseasonably warm weather has likely discouraged the fungi from their usual emergence, for they thrive best in cooler, moisture-laden air.

Nevertheless, in the spirit of perseverance and appreciation for nature’s finer details, Joel and I turned our attention to the craft of focus stacking—an intricate photographic technique suited for capturing these minute woodland organisms in their full dimensional glory. Each specimen demands patience and precision: we take between twenty and fifty images of a single frame, adjusting focus ever so slightly with each exposure. These are captured wide open, at the lens’s brightest aperture, allowing for maximum light and subtle depth. The process, though meticulous, borders on artistry. Thankfully, modern tools like Adobe Photoshop now make the post-processing more accessible, layering these images into a singular, sharply focused result.

I am truly enamored with the outcome. The images reveal the mushrooms as they are—young, tender sprouts, barely rising from the mossy floor. Their forms are delicate, almost otherworldly in their fragility.

Joel, ever the skilled forager, has an uncanny ability to find the pixie parasol—Mycena interrupta—a rare and enchanting species distinguished by its luminous blue hue and ephemeral presence. His knowledge borders on the encyclopedic, and he often jests, with an arched brow and a knowing smile, “What would you do without me?” Indeed, his companionship and expertise are as indispensable as the forest itself in our shared pursuit of these botanical treasures.

In these quiet moments beneath the towering eucalyptus and mountain ash, surrounded by the ancient breath of the earth, one is reminded that even in scarcity, the forest offers gifts to those who look closely.

Sony A7RV

Sigma 105mm f2.8 Macro

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Forest in Warburton, Melbourne

 

Forest in winter is therapeutic for one's soul. Minus the mosquitos, leeches and potholes. 

Coming here requires a commute through Warburton the town known for various cults quarters based in it. The only thing I like from the town is the bakery that sells apple pear pies which is to die for. I even had a photo from it, getting promoted on "In Explore" on Flickr. How bizarre. It was a mediocre shot!

Sony A7RIV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Warburton Gallery

Forest Cave Coast for Skywatch Friday

 

Joel and I were supposed to find the entrance to forest cave. We believed the tide was not low enough that the entrance was immersed in the sea still. So we took a snap at the sea.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4

Linking Skywatch Friday

Zhang Jia Jie Forest

10 Miles River

Red Browed Finches in Wonthaggi Gippsland for Saturday Critter

 

Red-browed Finches (Neochmia temporalis)

The Red-browed Finch, also known as the Red-browed Firetail, is a small, colorful bird native to eastern and southeastern Australia. These finches are popular among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts due to their distinctive appearance and social behavior.

Appearance

Red-browed Finches are small birds, measuring around 11-12 cm in length. They are most recognizable by their striking red markings: a bright red stripe (or "brow") running from the beak through the eye, a vivid red beak, and a red rump and tail. The rest of their plumage is a soft olive-green on the back and wings, with grey underparts. The red accents make them easy to identify, especially when they are foraging on the ground or flitting through dense vegetation.

Habitat and Distribution

These finches are widely distributed across eastern Australia, from Queensland down to Victoria and South Australia, often found in woodlands, forest edges, grasslands, and along watercourses. They are especially common in areas with thick undergrowth and are often seen in urban gardens and parks. Their ability to adapt to disturbed and human-altered landscapes has contributed to their stable population.

Diet

Red-browed Finches primarily feed on seeds, particularly grass seeds, but they will also eat small insects and fruits when available. They are ground feeders and are frequently seen hopping around in groups, feeding on seeds fallen to the ground. Their short, conical beak is perfectly adapted for cracking seeds.

Behaviour

Highly social, Red-browed Finches are often observed in flocks, sometimes numbering up to 30 or more birds. They exhibit cooperative behaviors, such as communal roosting and allopreening (grooming each other). Pairs form strong bonds and can often be seen perched closely together, engaging in mutual preening, as seen in your photo.

These finches are also known for their quiet and sweet-sounding calls, a series of high-pitched "tseet-tseet" notes that help flock members stay in contact while foraging or flying.

Breeding

The breeding season generally occurs from August to April but can vary depending on food availability and location. Red-browed Finches build dome-shaped nests made from grass and other fine plant materials, typically located in dense shrubs or trees. Both male and female participate in building the nest and feeding the chicks. Clutches usually consist of 4 to 6 eggs, and the young fledge after about three weeks.

I still remembered this lucky shot when the trip went to Wantage for some nice hay bale sceneries

Linking Saturday Critter 

Petrified forest Portland for Sunday Best

 

There is something alive behind these fossils. At close distance, there is something else in them. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Some more Forest Mushrooms for Treasure Tuesday

 

Right thigh is feeling much better. I think it is muscle tear healing up. Now contemplating on swimming instead. Less toll on muscular injury. 

Sony A7RV

Sigma 105mm f2.8 Macro

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Forest Cave Phillip Island for Treasure Tuesday

 

This is low tide. Having high tide, this cave would be under water. Love sunset through the cave.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Forest Cave at Phillip Island for Sunday Best

 

This is where 4 people were drowned in Nov 2023. This cave is totally under water within 10 minutes. 90% of the time, it is where fish swim. 

Looks wet and raw. I kind of love it.

Sony A7RV

Laowa 9mm f5.6

Linking Sunday Best

Corra Flynn Cascade Waterfall, Marysville

 

A really nice hidden waterfall, still present after Black Saturday bushfire.  Love the anions emitted by the forest at the same time.

Linking Randomosity

Abandoned Gold Mining Equipment in Forest Creek, Castlemaine

 

After seeing some blogger friends posting on mining equipment, I took quite a few abandoned in the wilderness in Loddon Region of Victoria.

Seriously, this shall be protected in a shelter of some sort instead of being left out in the wilderness.

Sony A7RIV

Laowa 9mm f5.6

Castlemaine photos

Petrified Forest, Portland for Treasure Tuesday

 

What a view! I took this on Friday evening. There were no tourists either!

DJ Mini Pro4

linking Treasure Tuesday

Thick Trunk Thursday - Warburton Forest

 

Wet and wild. Love the creek.

Sony A7RIV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

This is linking Random-osity

Foraging in the bush, Emerald

 

The sheer joy of getting a macro shot in focus. I am using an old sigma macro lens from 30 years ago. There is no digital coating on the lens. So flare sensitivity is clear. I don't like flashes in macro so this was taken at high ISO. A lot of noise. Well, whatever. It was a nice walk in the wet forest.

Sony A7RIV

EX 150mm f2.8 macro

Mushroom

Forest near a Poet's resting place

Interesting light here. This was taken during a trip to an old time poet in china

Forest Glade Garden for Treasure Tuesday

 

Well, I do not own this statue. But I tend to visit this private garden opened in Spring and Autumn. The garden is located in Mount Macedon 1 hour drive from Melbourne.

The statue is a little weird that one dude is staring into another dude's private part. Quite a focus on the facial expression too. 

Sony A7RIV

FE 24mm f1.4 GM

Linking Treasure Tuesday

White Whiskered Laughingthrush in Taiwan for Saturday Critter

 

I only learnt the name of this bird until a former mate in Perth Australia told me about it.

Extraordinarily plumaged songbird with white facial markings that lend it an almost comical whiskered appearance. Brown overall, with accents of yellow, buff, purple, plum, blue, and orange throughout the plumage. Inhabits montane forest edge with dense shrubbery or grassy cover, but often emerges out onto roadsides and paths to forage, often crossing the road close to vehicles. Moves in noisy flocks or in pairs, giving soft contact calls and harsh rattling and whistling calls when alarmed. Song, a melodic tinkling, is simple but pleasant.

Sony A7RV

Sigma 105mm macro 

Linking Saturday Critter